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abandoned lands and gather the down wood limbs &c left by the Army and the Saw Mills. This I have deemed sufficient.
Two or three individuals, a Mr. Smith and a Mr Winder, the latter very abusively, the former very civilly, complained as you represent. I assured them that I did not allow it and, if they would bring proof, I would arrest and punish every such one.
Mr. Smith very reasonably said he did not wish them punished, but stopped. He said he knows of several.  I immediately furnished him with guards to arrest them or any he could catch by laying in wait, which he promised to do. but to this day he has not to my knowledge found them. He may have done so. but must have disposed of them in some other way.  
I also long since offered to Mr. Hickman another complainant, $5.00 per head. for every one he would detect, but none have been reported as yet.  
I then. to make every thing clear (as such business is not done in the night) told them if they wished it I would authorise the guards at Hampton to seize every load of green wood. with team and